Calf Stretch

Lower Body Stretches Series

calf-stretch

This fitness video demonstrates a calf stretch. The calf muscle is located at the back of the lower leg.

There are actually two muscles making up the calves. The first is the gastrocnemius and the other is the soleus muscle.

These two muscles taper and merge together at the calf.

While walking, running or jumping, this muscle pulls the heel up and allows forward movement.




When stretching this area, you want to be careful not to stretch too deep causing small tears in the muscle. When this happens, you strain the calf muscle which can cause pain and discomfort.

Stretch #5 - Calf Stretch

There are many different stretches you can do for the calf muscle. The directions and video below are a standing wall stretch for the calves.
  1. Stand one to two feet away from (and facing) the wall placing your hands on the wall.
  2. Place the toes of your right foot up against the wall.
  3. Press the heel of your right foot on the ground.
  4. Keep both legs straight. Push your hips forward to deepen the stretch.
  5. Hold this stretch for 20 - 30 seconds. 
  6. Repeat for the other leg.
Make sure to hold the stretch and not bounce or pulse while doing this move.

Watch the video below to ensure you are doing the this move correctly. 


Not all mobile devices will display the video correctly. If you are not seeing the full video (or it's not displaying at all), click here to view the calf stretch on youtube.

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